The rantings of a teacher who retired from the classroom but not from education.

Thursday, October 06, 2011

Sad Commentary On Education Today

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Last year we needed tape to post regents rooms since we had none in the math office, I went in search of the supply guy. He opened a room that made my eyes pop. There was a mini Staples under our noses with more supplies than every teacher could possibly use in the year. I even heard there was a similar room with much more in the basement. Unfortunately, teachers have no access to these goodies and are forced to purchase what they need.

Last week I needed markers for the dry erase board my college class meets in. The secretary pointed me in the direction of the supply drawer (the size of 6 file cabinet drawers) and told me to help myself to whatever I needed. There were blue, black and red pens. I had my choice of thick points and thin points. There were pencils, highlighters, markers, chalk, pads, stickies and anything else a teacher could desire. All were mine for the taking. Feeling decadent, I took two markers, a new eraser and a red pen. It was exhilarating.

Today I walked into the math office and watched teachers scrambling around looking for a piece of chalk, something they needed to teach their class. I happened to have two pieces in my pocket which I gladly gave to some very appreciative colleagues. What a commentary on education today.